Pest Information: Cockroaches

Cockroach Identification for Idaho Homes

Cockroaches are one of the most dreaded household pests—and for good reason. Known for their resilience and ability to spread bacteria, cockroach infestations can quickly escalate if not addressed early. Proper identification is the first step in effective treatment.

This guide highlights the most common cockroach species found in Idaho homes and explains how to tell them apart, where they hide, and what to do if you spot one.

Are Cockroaches Common in Idaho?

Yes. While they’re more active in warmer climates, cockroaches are regularly found in homes, restaurants, and apartments across the Treasure Valley—especially in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and crawlspaces. Once they establish a nest, they reproduce quickly and are extremely difficult to remove without professional help.

Common Cockroach Species in Southwest Idaho

1. German Cockroach (Blattella germanica)

• Size: 1/2”–5/8” long
• Color: Light brown with two dark parallel stripes behind the head
• Habitat: Prefers kitchens and bathrooms; hides in cracks, behind appliances, and in warm, humid spaces
• Behavior: Nocturnal; extremely fast-moving; prolific breeders

Notes: The most common indoor roach in Idaho. A small infestation can grow rapidly into a major problem.

2. American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana)

• Size: Up to 2” long
• Color: Reddish-brown with a yellow halo behind the head
• Habitat: Often found in basements, utility rooms, and sewers; prefers dark, damp spaces
• Behavior: Can fly short distances; slower to infest than German roaches but harder to eliminate

Notes: Their large size and fast movement often make them the most shocking for homeowners to see.

3. Brown-Banded Cockroach (Supella longipalpa)

• Size: 1/2” long
• Color: Light brown with two lighter bands across the wings and abdomen
• Habitat: Prefers drier areas; often found in ceilings, behind picture frames, and upper cabinets
• Behavior: Likes warmth; tends to infest higher areas rather than floors

Notes: Less common than German roaches, but difficult to spot due to their unique hiding places.

How to Know If You Have Cockroaches

You may not always see a live cockroach. Here are key signs of an infestation:

• Small black droppings (like ground pepper) in drawers, corners, or under sinks
• Smear marks along baseboards or walls
• Unpleasant, musty odor from hidden nest areas
• Egg capsules (tiny, dark brown cases) hidden near food, water, or cracks
• Live cockroaches—especially during the day—indicate a serious infestation

How Roaches Get Into Idaho Homes

Cockroaches enter homes through gaps under doors, around pipes, or in grocery bags and shipping boxes. Once inside, they hide in warm, dark places and multiply rapidly.

Common entry points include:

• Under kitchen sinks and bathroom vanities
• Behind refrigerators and dishwashers
• Cracks in walls and cabinets
• Basement or garage vents

What to Do If You See a Cockroach

1. Don’t panic—but don’t ignore it. One cockroach is rarely alone.
2. Avoid using aerosol sprays. These can drive roaches deeper into walls and make baiting less effective.
3. Clean up food and water sources. Roaches need moisture to survive.
4. Seal gaps and cracks around plumbing and baseboards.
5. Call a professional. DIY methods rarely resolve an infestation long-term.

ProGuard’s Cockroach Treatment Process

We use proven strategies to eliminate cockroaches at every life stage. Our roach control service includes:

• In-depth inspection to locate nesting and hiding areas
• Targeted baiting and dusting in inaccessible cracks and voids
• Long-lasting perimeter and interior treatments
• Exclusion advice to prevent future infestations
• No contracts—just guaranteed results

Schedule a Free Roach Inspection

If you’ve seen signs of cockroaches or want to protect your home from future problems, contact ProGuard today. We’ll inspect your home, identify the species, and build a custom treatment plan that works for your family and budget.

REQUEST A FREE COCKROACH INSPECTION